Chrysanthemum Day in Japan Date in the current year: September 9, 2024

Chrysanthemum has been a symbol of the Emperor of Japan and the royal family for a long time. It can be seen on the Imperial Seal of Japan. Besides, the position of the Japanese Emperor is called the Chrysanthemum Throne, and Japan's highest order is the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum.

The celebration of the Chrysanthemum Festival dates back to 910, when the first chrysanthemum show was held by the Japanese imperial court. It was celebrated in early autumn because chrysanthemum is considered to be the seasonal flower of this time.

Chrysanthemum Day is closely related to the Double Ninth Festival, a traditional Chinese holiday. Before Japan adopted the Gregorian calendar, it had been celebrated on the 9th day of the 9th lunar month. When the new calendar was officially introduced, the celebration was moved to September 9, which also is the 9th day of the 9th month.

The Chrysanthemum Festival is celebrated throughout Japan at both Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. It is marked with colorful flower shows. Chrysanthemum Day is a traditional festival, it is not marked as a public holiday.